Updated August 17, 2023 by Jessie Gonzalez. This post contains affiliate links at no added cost.
If you’re one of the unlucky few people who suffer from plantar fasciitis, you know all too well how painful and debilitating plantar fasciitis can be. But while there’s no cure for PF, there are ways to make it more tolerable when you go snowboarding.
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the best practices for snowboarding with plantar fasciitis, from footwear to stretching exercises. Armed with this information, you’ll be able to keep your feet feeling good while blasting down the mountain!
Can You Snowboard With Plantar Fasciitis?
While you might not be able to enjoy a full day of snowboarding as long as some people, you should still be able to hit the slopes with plantar fasciitis. There are a few things you can do to help make snowboarding more comfortable if you have plantar fasciitis.
First, make sure that your boots fit properly and are not too tight. You may also want to try using a custom orthotic device or insert to help support your foot and reduce pain. Finally, try warming up before you hit the slopes by doing some light stretching exercises.
If you take these steps and still experience pain while snowboarding, be sure to take a break and rest your foot as needed. Often one of the best ways to recover from plantar fasciitis is icing and rest. Luckily you can take your snowboard boot off and find plenty of snow to “ice” your heel at resorts.
What’s the Best Way to Snowboard with Plantar Fasciitis? Use These 3 Tips
There are a few things to consider when trying to snowboard with plantar fasciitis.
Our top three tips are as follows:
- If you can’t afford a custom orthotic then get a well-supported arch, name-brand orthotic.
- One of the best solutions is a custom orthotic for your snowboard boots
- Stretch before and after your snowboard session
Another thing to keep in mind is how you are standing while boarding. Try to keep your weight evenly distributed between both feet. Unavoidability, the heelside turns will stress the plantar fascia when riding and aggravate the condition so taking preventive steps is one of the most important things to do before hitting the trails.
Finally, take breaks often and stretch your calves and feet regularly. This will help keep the muscles and tendons around your feet loose and flexible. Once you get back to the resort or lodge, employ the “rice” method. Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.
It’s also helpful to go into a hot tub if you have one, employing a combination of hot and cold on the heel.
Do They Make Plantar Fasciitis Snowboard Boots?
Unfortunately, there is no such thing as plantar fasciitis snowboard boots. The solution though is custom orthotics if you snowboard a lot. Seeing an orthopedic doctor can be the difference between sitting in the lodge and riding the slopes.
Talking to an orthopedic doctor is the easiest way to get custom orthotics for your snowboard boots. Make sure you head in during the off-season and sort it out so that you’ll be ready when the season rolls around in the winter.
Another thing to consider is getting speed lace or BOA boots. It’s quicker to get your foot out and do a bit of stretching if needed. Also, try on a lot of boots for a good fit. Not all snowboard boots are the same. Some have a wider mid-foot or more support. Take the time to find a comfortable and supportive boot.
It will set the tone for the whole season if you get a comfortable boot that you can unlace quickly.
Can Snowboarding Make Plantar Fasciitis Worse?
It’s no secret if you talk to someone with plantar fasciitis that snowboarding can make it worse. From the heelside turns, the repeated bumps you ride over in the snow and the carving, snowboarding doesn’t help plantar fasciitis.
If you’re thinking about taking up snowboarding, make sure to stretch your calves and Achilles tendon regularly. As we mentioned, consider using inserts in your boots or wearing orthotics to help support your feet.
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Snowboarding Stretches for Plantar Fasciitis: Try This Routine
Having a stretching routine before you hit the slopes can help mitigate plantar fasciitis.
Six stretches for plantar fasciitis before snowboarding are:
- A wall-facing calf stretch
- Seated toe towel scrunches
- Heel raises
- Plantar fascia massage
- Floor sitting ankle inversion
- Seated plantar fascia stretch
If you haven’t already learned these then take a bit of time to learn them and you’ll be able to use them all winter before your riding sessions.
Final Thoughts
While it is possible to snowboard with plantar fasciitis, it is not always easy. If you are willing to put in the work and stretch before going out, you can have good days on the slopes.
Take care of your feet, try to get a pair of orthotics and take frequent breaks if needed. Don’t let plantar fasciitis stop you from snowboarding. It doesn’t have to!
